Bonoan invokes right against self-incrimination over pending plunder case

MANILA, Philippines — Former Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan on Wednesday refused to answer questions about his pending plunder and graft case before the Sandiganbayan, invoking his constitutional right against self-incrimination while testifying in the malversation case of former Sen. Bong Revilla.

Bonoan is a prosecution witness in the case against Revilla, who is facing malversation charges before the anti-graft court’s Third Division for allegedly conspiring in a P92.8-million ghost project in Pandi, Bulacan, in exchange for a 25% kickback. Revilla has repeatedly denied the allegation.

Bonoan agreed to be a cooperating witness in the flood control case, but he is still a co-accused in the plunder and graft case against Sen. Jinggoy Estrada over his alleged receipt of P573 million worth of kickbacks, an accusation the senator repeatedly denied.

During cross examination, Revilla’s lawyer Isaiah Asuncion asked Bonoan if he confirms his denial before the court of accusation of state witness and former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo that he received a “commitment” or kickback which led to his plunder case.

Ombudsman’s Deputy Special Prosecutor Omar Sagadal objected to this question, questioning its relevance, as he noted that Bonoan could invoke his right against self-incrimination anyway.

Asuncion said he is just testing the witness’ credibility.

Associate Justice Karl Miranda, the Third Division chairperson, allowed the question, saying the invocation of this constitutional right should come from Bonoan himself.

“Well, your honor, this time I invoke my right [against] self incrimination,” Bonoan said in response to Asuncion’s question.

During his line of questioning, Asuncion once more asked, this time, if he agrees with Bernardo’s allegation that he received kickbacks.

Bonoan invoked his right against self-incrimination once more.

“So there,” said Miranda.

After the Office of the Ombudsman’s acceptance of Bonoan’s offer to become a witness, its prosecutors filed a motion to amend the case information to discharge the former DPWH chief from the graft case, but it was junked by the Sandiganbayan Second Division.

Prosecutor’s similar motion for Bonoan’s non-bailable plunder case in the Fifth Division remains pending.

Bonoan was allowed to be under hospital arrest in the Philippine National Police General Hospital while dealing with diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and other ailments.

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